Faith Formation

“A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky ground, where it had little soil. It sprang up at once because the soil was not deep, and when the sun rose it was scorched, and it withered for lack of roots. Some seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it. But some seed fell on rich soil, and produced fruit, a hundred or sixty or thirtyfold. Whoever has ears ought to hear.” Matthew 13:3b-9

“Catechesis [is] the act of handing on the Word of God with the intention of informing the faith community and candidates for the initiation into the Church about the teachings of Christ, transmitted by the Apostles to the Church. It also involves the lifelong effort of forming people into witnesses to Christ and opening hearts to the spiritual transformation given by the Holy Spirit” (United States Catholic Catechism for Adults, pg 506.)

Faith formation is simply helping equip people to live as disciples of Jesus. St. Mary’s recognizes formation in the faith as a lifelong journey and endeavors to provide a full experience for all persons in all stages of life. “The Church’s catechetical mission aims to help the faithful of all ages to grow in both human and Christian maturity, enriching the whole of life with the leaven of the Gospel” (Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us, #64.)

St. Mary’s embraces faith formation as a life-long process. We offer specific programs and formation opportunities for families with children, youth, and adults. Please click a link below for more information about our specific faith formation opportunities.